In this episode of the Today’s Family Lawyer podcast, host David Opie is joined by Jude Eyre, Associate Director at the Nuffield Family Justice Observatory (NFJO).
Together, they explore the newly released Toolkit for Judges on Writing to Children, a guidance document designed to support judges in communicating directly with children in family law proceedings.
Jude offers insight into the collaborative process behind the toolkit, developed with input from the Family Justice Young People’s Board, judges, social workers, researchers, and families with lived experience.
The discussion centres on improving accessibility and compassion in court communications—highlighting how a well-crafted letter can empower children to understand decisions affecting their lives.
Jude also addresses concerns about judicial workloads and explains how early collaboration with legal professionals can ease implementation of this approach.
With its practical examples and supportive tone, the toolkit reflects a growing shift toward a more transparent, child-focused justice system.
Essential listening for professionals across the family law landscape, this episode reinforces the power of clear, empathetic communication at every stage of the process.
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